OLEAN, NY -- The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) has awarded three International Baccalaureate (IB) educator grants to teachers at Archbishop Walsh Academy. The funds, totaling $1500, will provide additional resources to IB educators seeking to deepen and enrich curriculum content and increase student engagement. NSHSS awarded twenty grants to high school educators nationwide.

"This grant funding will go a long way to provide our students with meaningful learning experiences outside classroom," Michel said. "Archbishop Walsh Academy is grateful for the funding and the opportunities it will provide."

Each of the teachers intends to use the majority of the funding to subsidize field trips that engage students in practical work.

"While students do need to be able to follow directions and replicate procedures in the IB classroom, they must also be provided with the opportunities for genuine, organic inquiry," Barleben said.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme was created in 1968 by teachers at the International School of Geneva, with assistance from several other international schools. The high school curriculum offers a balanced education designed to facilitate geographic and cultural mobility and to promote international understanding. There are almost 5,000 schools offering the IB Diploma Programme in over 150 different countries worldwide.

"NSHSS recognizes the vital role educators play in the success of high-achieving students. International Baccalaureate teachers are challenging our students to strive for excellence and our organization is pleased to be able to enhance their efforts," said NSHSS president James Lewis.